Lake Powell is the second largest human made lake in the United States, surpassed only by Lake Mead in Nevada, Lake Powell crosses the border between Utah and Arizona so read on and discover the 5 wonders of Lake Powell.
Whether your family likes the idea of a houseboat vacation, loves to canoe, or just wants to hike the wild country around this remarkable feature, you can find vacation fun on Lake Powell that the whole family can enjoy.
Table of Contents
Cruise the Shore for New Treasures
Lake Powell was formed when Glenn Canyon was dammed.
The Colorado River filled the region, creating this massive body of water.
Because it fills rough topography, the shore of Lake Powell is quite jagged.
In fact, if fully stretched out, the shore length of Lake Powell would reach from the border of Mexico to the border of Canada along the west coast.
The coves and inlets offer endless variety to travelers who love to be on the water.
Consider renting a kayak or canoe for shoreline cruising.
As the water level drops, previously covered layers and stone bridges become visible.
Be aware that, though well marked, there are some very deep stretches of Lake Powell and some very fast boats on the water.
This may not be a suitable adventure for young children.
Stay along the shore as you study the varied rock layers and plant life that surround this remarkable body of water.
See Lake Powell from the Air: Horseshoe Bend Awaits
From Page, Arizona, you can take a helicopter tour to Tower Butte, where your pilot can land.
Atop Tower Butte, you can enjoy 360 degrees to check out the nearby landscape.
Your helicopter tour can also take you over Horseshoe Bend and the Glen Canyon Dam.
The desert can get dusty.
If you choose to take a helicopter tour, try to make sure you have a bandana or two in your pocket or purse so you can protect your mouth.
Helicopter blades can raise quite a bit of dust as well.
Additionally, the desert can get quite windy.
Thanks to the canyons in the area, this wind can become quite dusty.
If you’re not confident about standing atop Tower Butte, relax and enjoy the flyover tour.
If the weather is good and conditions allow, you can enjoy 15 to 20 minutes of photo taking time atop Tower Butte.
Finally, your pilot will take you back to the air terminal in Page so you can grab dinner, check out the sunset and relax.
You can also enjoy a half mile hike onto the platform of Horseshoe Bend.
Be aware that the area is fenced; if you choose to go beyond the fence, be sure of your footing.
The sandstone can break away and leave you sliding toward the river.
Take a Driving Tour to Antelope Canyon
For those who love to hike, take a tour from Lake Powell to Antelope Canyon for a guided hike through the slot canyons of Antelope Canyon. Make sure you take
- sunscreen and water
- a hat and sunglasses
- a pack with warmer clothing if you will be out after dark
Once the sun goes down, the desert can get chilly.
It’s important to know how slot canyons are formed if you plan to hike them.
Slot canyons, such as those found in Antelope Canyon, were formed when water rushed through sandstone.
Not only are these canyons extremely deep, they feature curves and flares that can be quite disorienting.
It is never a good idea to enter a slot canyon alone; finding your way out can be challenging as there are no square corners in most.
Additionally, if it rains, you could be caught in a flood.
Hire a guide so you can focus on studying the curves, getting great photos, and just enjoying yourself experiencing one of the 5 Wonders of Lake Powell.
Take a Tour to the Rainbow Bridge
The Rainbow Bridge is located in Utah.
It must be accessed on foot or by boat; there are no roads leading to Rainbow Bridge.
There is a short hike to the bridge that is less than a mile, though declining water levels have made it a bit longer.
At nearly 300 feet in height, the Rainbow Bridge spans 270 feet in width and is a sacred space within Navajo culture.
There are no camping or picnic areas near this monument; it is a shared space for all but not a spot to linger.
Be aware that, if you hike in, there are no restroom services at this monument.
Plan accordingly, or enjoy a Lake Powell cruise up to the Rainbow Bridge before returning to the marina.
If you choose to hike in, prepare for high heat and a long trek.
The shortest hike to the Rainbow Bridge starts at the old Rainbow Lodge.
You will need a permit from the Navajo Nation before you start your hike.
This sacred space is not easy to access and those who work to preserve it are diligent.
The Grand Staircase
Consider a careful tour of the Grand Staircase, near Page, AZ and Kanab, UT.
The sweeping vistas and massive canyons of this area can feel overwhelming.
If you’re lucky enough to be in the region in the spring or fall, take a slow tour of the rock formations so you can study the petroglyphs and cave paintings.
The Escalante Ruins and all the rock art in the area remind us that we are part of a larger community.
While Lake Powell wasn’t created until the mid-twentieth century, our desire as humans to be a part of the story of water, stone, desert and sky is pervasive.
A slow tour of the cave paintings and the preserved Escalante Ruins would give you time to revel in the experiences of those who came before.
There are areas along Lake Powell that don’t require permits, such as the White Pocket; an excellent spot for photos.
Of course, if you want to see The Wave, you will have to try your luck at a lottery to get in but it would certainly be one of the 5 Wonders of Lake Powell.
Lake Powell is currently being impacted by climate change and by the ever-growing population of the region.
If this is an area you have always wanted to visit, book a fall or spring tour of the area from the water. Don’t wait!
